Treating patients with ARFID often involves a combination of psychological, behavioral, and medical interventions.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has shown positive results in addressing anxiety and fear associated with food consumption, as well as hypersensitivity to the smell, taste, or texture of certain foods. Another promising psychological treatment is a modified version of family-based therapy (FBT), which was originally used for other eating disorders but has been adapted specifically for ARFID. This approach provides support to people with ARFID, as well as their caregivers and family, while fostering recovery within the home environment and reducing tensions within the family unit.[1][2][3] The effectiveness of these methods should be further investigated through randomized controlled studies.
People with ARFID, particularly children who don’t ingest enough calories, may also require supplementation with nutritional formulas, oral supplements, or tube feeding.[4]
Some pharmacological treatments (e.g., olanzapine, mirtazapine, cyproheptadine) are being explored as adjunct therapies for ARFID to reduce anxiety related to food and stimulate appetite. However, studies on their effectiveness and long-term safety are still in the early stages, and more evidence is needed for evaluation.[5][4][6]